Finding the best education for your children is one of the major concerns for any family—and this is especially true for families relocating to a new country or city. Luckily, there are plenty of great options to choose from in South Korea, and families can be confident to find a wide range private international schools to help their children succeed.
Why choose an international school in South Korea?
Choosing an international school in South Korea offers a plethora of benefits that cater to both the educational and personal development of students. These institutions are renowned for providing a high standard of education, coupled with unique opportunities to immerse in a vibrant cultural experience.
Global Curriculum Standards
International schools in South Korea adopt globally recognized curriculums such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), American, or British systems, which are known for their rigorous standards and holistic approach to education. This global perspective not only facilitates a smooth transition for expatriate students but also prepares Korean students for international higher education opportunities. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, essential for success in today’s globalized world.
Cultural Integration and Language Acquisition
One of the unique aspects of studying in an international school in South Korea is the blend of cultural integration with educational excellence. Students gain proficiency in English, often the medium of instruction, while also having the opportunity to learn Korean, providing them with a significant linguistic edge. Cultural exchange programs, interaction with a diverse student body, and participation in local festivals and events enrich students’ experiences and understanding of global cultures.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Extracurricular Activities
Most international schools in South Korea boast state-of-the-art facilities that enhance learning experiences. From modern science labs and technology-integrated classrooms to extensive sports complexes and arts centers, these schools offer environments that nurture a student’s intellectual and creative abilities. Extracurricular activities play a vital role too, enabling students to explore interests beyond academics, in sports, arts, and various clubs, fostering a well-rounded personality.
Experienced International Faculty
The faculty at these schools often comprises highly qualified international educators with experience in teaching the curricula of their respective countries. This exposure to international teaching standards and practices enhances the learning process, providing students with a broadened educational perspective. Moreover, the low student-to-teacher ratio allows for personalized attention, ensuring that individual learning needs are met efficiently.
Networking and Future Opportunities
Attending an international school opens doors to vast networking opportunities with peers from around the globe. This network can be invaluable for future professional relationships and higher education prospects. Furthermore, these schools typically have well-established connections with universities worldwide, often facilitating smoother admissions processes for their students.
In conclusion, international schools in South Korea represent a compelling choice for parents seeking a comprehensive education that equips their children with the skills needed for future success in a global setting. The blend of rigorous academics, cultural immersion, and a supportive learning environment makes these schools an attractive option for families living in Korea and those from abroad considering relocation.
How much does it cost to attend International Schools in South Korea?
The yearly tuition fees for International Schools in South Korea generally range from $15,000 to $35,000 per year. This cost can vary based on factors like the curriculum, the quality of campus facilities, the standard of boarding, and the services – with some top-tier schools exceeding $40,000 annually.
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $15,000 | $35,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $1,250 | $2,920 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $500 | $1,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $400 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $2,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $17,200 | $39,420 |
Top International Schools South Korea 2026
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Branksome Hall Asia
Seogwipo City, Jeju Island •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Middle Years Programme - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 20,188,000 to 24,714,000 KRW
Foundation: 2012Nationalities: 20 different nationalitiesNr of students: 20 studentsExaminations: IB DiplomaSouth Korea’s leading independent, full-continuum IB World School offering students academic excellence in tandem with unmatched commitments to global engagement and well-being.Full-continuum International Baccalaureate ProgramAnnual tuition fees at Branksome Hall Asia range from KRW 20,188,000 to KRW 24,714,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Tuition is paid both in KRW and USD. Lunch and optional fees not included in tuition.Boarding tuition: Includes meals, trips and optional activities. -
North London Collegiate School Jeju
Seogwipo City, Jeju Island •Co-Education •- from 4
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 25,500 to 35,500 USD
Foundation: 2011Nationalities: 18 different nationalitiesNr of students: 18 studentsExaminations: IB Diploma - IGCSENLCS Jeju provides a stimulating and diverse experience in which every child is challenged and supported to realise their potential.At NLCS Jeju we hold the highest standards of academic excellence. We expect our students to achieve outstanding success in both the Cambridge IGCSE and International Baccalaureate(IB) examinations and to go on to some of the best universities in the world. We have offered the IB programme since 2011 and have had a consistent record of success. Our Class of 2023 passed the IB with an average score of 36 points. We are ranked in the global Top 40 IB Schools and are Best in South Korea.Annual tuition fees at North London Collegiate School Jeju range from USD 25,500 to USD 35,500, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Our tuition fees for day and boarding students ranges from $25,000 to $35,000 USDBoarding tuition: Our fees for boarding range from $9,000 to $18,000 USD -
Taejon Christian International School
Daejeon, South Korea •Co-Education •- from 4
- to 19 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 20,000 to 40,000 USD
Foundation: 1958Nationalities: 22 different nationalitiesNr of students: 22 studentsExaminations: American Diploma - IB DiplomaTaejon Christian International School was established in 1958.International Baccalaureate, American CurriculumAnnual tuition fees at Taejon Christian International School range from USD 20,000 to USD 40,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Busan Foreign School
Busan, South Korea •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 5,700 to 11,200 USD
Foundation: 1996Nationalities: 20 different nationalitiesNr of students: 20 studentsExaminations: American DiplomaBusan Foreign School is an international school with an American style educational philosophy and curriculum.American CurriculumAnnual tuition fees at Busan Foreign School range from USD 5,700 to USD 11,200, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
KIS International School
Gyeonggi-do, South Korea •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 22,000 to 30,500 USD
Foundation: 2000Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: American DiplomaWELCOME TO KIS Korea International School (KIS) is a private, proprietary, non-profit, nonsectarian school.KIS offers a comprehensive, college-preparatory curriculum. The AP program began in 2005-2006 with four classes and has increased to twenty five classes. Web Design, Video Production, Theater, Concert Choir, Psychology, Sociology, Creative Writing, and Contemporary Global Issues are examples of some of our numerous elective classes providing opportunities to experience diversity throughout the curriculum. The KIS elementary curriculum (PK-5) helps children develop the skills and attitudes they will need both at the elementary level and for a lifetime of learning. In addition to academics, the elementary curriculum emphasizes the arts, student activities and athletics to enable students to acquire problem solving, decision making, and critical thinking skills, with an emphasis on providing ...Annual tuition fees at KIS International School range from USD 22,000 to USD 30,500, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition:
Popular International Schools Destinations in South Korea
Summary
International schools in South Korea blend rigorous academics with cultural integration, offering a global curriculum and state-of-the-art facilities that foster critical thinking, creativity, and comprehensive personal development. These schools provide significant advantages, including experienced international faculties, extensive extracurricular programs, and excellent future networking and higher education opportunities.
